Sunday, July 9, 2023: Sharpeville’s Lebohang Raputsoe became the first Miss South Africa finalist to be voted out of Crown Chasers

In the first episode viewers got to meet the finalists in the running for the title of Miss South Africa 2023 and learn why they believe they should take the crown. The finalists were presented with their official sashes by Miss South Africa and Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi (who is also the series’ host) and current Miss South Africa Ndavi Nokeri.

Judges Bonang Matheba and Leandie du Randt, along with guest judge Dr Tamaryn Green Nxumalo, evaluated their performances at a networking event as well as during their first official photoshoot, with Raputsoe leaving at the end of the episode.

Reveals Raputsoe: “Crown Chasers was a roller coaster of emotions; intimidating, fun, sad, exhausting and liberating. The crew was amazing to work with, and while some of the content was difficult to film, it helped strengthen my character.

“I found the challenges on the day of the elimination the hardest as I am a heavy planner and doing things spontaneously has never been one of my strengths. I am a very honest and realistic person and believe that I could have done better. However, I also do not want to be too harsh on myself because I did my best. But I am always on a journey of self-development and will definitely work on the skills I need to polish,” she says.

Raputsoe, a 24-year-old HR professional with a Master’s degree in Human Resources management and degrees in Industrial Psychology and Labour Relations Management, describes her Miss South Africa journey: “It was full of surprises and a huge step out of my comfort zone. I was nervous and in a constant state of disbelief. One day I was just Lebohang and the next day I was a Miss South Africa 2023 finalist; what a dream. I met the most amazing ladies who I now call my friends. It was short lived but inspirational.

“The best part of the journey was getting to meet all those who entered and forming relationships with the crew, the finalists, the Miss South Africa team, sponsors and all the Miss South Africa supporters. The hardest part was getting sick and trying to maintain my energy while having early mornings and late evenings.”

Would she do it all over again? “At first I thought not. The disappointment that came with knowing I was eliminated was hard. However, after careful thought, I can say that I am content with ‘God’s timing’. I see how the journey has strengthened my character and, yes, I would do it all over again. The whole experience has taught me that I am extremely resilient and firm in my character as I do not allow any situation or circumstance to break or alter the person that I am.”

What now for Lebohang?

“I am looking to be an author and to realise and optimise more of my potential through taking on many other opportunities and to obtain my PHD. I will continue to pursue the vision that I stand for, which is the holistic progression of youth focusing on empowerment, development and sustainability.”

Her message for her fellow contestants:

“You are exactly where God wants you to be. Remember to continue to be the best version of yourself. We will always find ourselves in rooms full of opportunity and what’s yours will find you; only if you remain true to who you are. Don’t lose yourself, because it is that very true and genuine version that got you this far. I love you all so much and thank you for showing me so much love and support in return. It’s not a goodbye but see you later.”

Her message to her supporters:

“To everyone who supported me, I would like to say thank you. I am truly grateful to have represented everyone who believed in my dream just as much as I did. I would not be where I am without your love and support. You know me and my heart, and our journey does not end here. I will carry your love into the next opportunity that awaits me.”

The second episode of Crown Chasers will be broadcast on Sunday, July 16, at 16h00 on SABC3. The remaining contestants fly to Mauritius where they are tasked with creating a travel vlog of their experience in travelling internationally, some for the first time. The finalists are given a fun beach challenge followed by a photo shoot with swimwear from Imbe by former Miss South Africa Shudufhadzo Musida. The importance of protecting the oceans from climate change is showcased and the finalists meet Miss Universe Mauritius. Guest judge is Miss South Africa 2001 Vanessa Carreira Coutroulis.

Crown Chasers viewers and Miss South Africa fans are encouraged to vote for their favourite Crown Chaser via the official Miss South Africa App which can also be downloaded for free from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Voting is open from now until August 7 at 10h00.

Miss South Africa 2023 will be crowned at the SunBet Arena at Time Square in Pretoria on Sunday, August 13.

Miss South Africa is presented by Weil Entertainment in association with Sun International. SABC3 is the official broadcast partner.

Go to:

For more information and interview opportunities contact the S3 Publicity office.

Don’t miss Crown Chasers on Sundays (16:00) and the repeat (22:00). The live broadcast of Miss South Africa 2023 is Sunday, 13th of August (19:00), kicking off with the Red Carpet at (18:30) and will be repeated on the 28th of August (21:30) on S3 and SABC Plus. SABC+ is available for download from Apple and Android App Stores.

For media enquiries

Caroline Phalakatshela

Publicity Specialist – Video Entertainment

072 382 2032/ phalakatshelamc@sabc.co.za

Sunday, July 9, 2023: Sharpeville’sLebohang Raputsoe became the first Miss South Africa finalist to be voted out of Crown Chasers, the behind-the-scenes Miss South Africa television series which debuted today on SABC 3.

In the first episode viewers got to meet the finalists in the running for the title of Miss South Africa 2023 and learn why they believe they should take the crown. The finalists were presented with their official sashes by Miss South Africa and Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi (who is also the series’ host) and current Miss South Africa Ndavi Nokeri.

Judges Bonang Matheba and Leandie du Randt, along with guest judge Dr Tamaryn Green Nxumalo, evaluated their performances at a networking event as well as during their first official photoshoot, with Raputsoe leaving at the end of the episode.

Reveals Raputsoe: “Crown Chasers was a roller coaster of emotions; intimidating, fun, sad, exhausting and liberating. The crew was amazing to work with, and while some of the content was difficult to film, it helped strengthen my character.

“I found the challenges on the day of the elimination the hardest as I am a heavy planner and doing things spontaneously has never been one of my strengths. I am a very honest and realistic person and believe that I could have done better. However, I also do not want to be too harsh on myself because I did my best. But I am always on a journey of self-development and will definitely work on the skills I need to polish,” she says.

Raputsoe, a 24-year-old HR professional with a Master’s degree in Human Resources management and degrees in Industrial Psychology and Labour Relations Management, describes her Miss South Africa journey: “It was full of surprises and a huge step out of my comfort zone. I was nervous and in a constant state of disbelief. One day I was just Lebohang and the next day I was a Miss South Africa 2023 finalist; what a dream. I met the most amazing ladies who I now call my friends. It was short lived but inspirational.

“The best part of the journey was getting to meet all those who entered and forming relationships with the crew, the finalists, the Miss South Africa team, sponsors and all the Miss South Africa supporters. The hardest part was getting sick and trying to maintain my energy while having early mornings and late evenings.”

Would she do it all over again? “At first I thought not. The disappointment that came with knowing I was eliminated was hard. However, after careful thought, I can say that I am content with ‘God’s timing’. I see how the journey has strengthened my character and, yes, I would do it all over again. The whole experience has taught me that I am extremely resilient and firm in my character as I do not allow any situation or circumstance to break or alter the person that I am.”

What now for Lebohang?

“I am looking to be an author and to realise and optimise more of my potential through taking on many other opportunities and to obtain my PHD. I will continue to pursue the vision that I stand for, which is the holistic progression of youth focusing on empowerment, development and sustainability.”

Her message for her fellow contestants:

“You are exactly where God wants you to be. Remember to continue to be the best version of yourself. We will always find ourselves in rooms full of opportunity and what’s yours will find you; only if you remain true to who you are. Don’t lose yourself, because it is that very true and genuine version that got you this far. I love you all so much and thank you for showing me so much love and support in return. It’s not a goodbye but see you later.”

Her message to her supporters:

“To everyone who supported me, I would like to say thank you. I am truly grateful to have represented everyone who believed in my dream just as much as I did. I would not be where I am without your love and support. You know me and my heart, and our journey does not end here. I will carry your love into the next opportunity that awaits me.”

The second episode of Crown Chasers will be broadcast on Sunday, July 16, at 16h00 on SABC3. The remaining contestants fly to Mauritius where they are tasked with creating a travel vlog of their experience in travelling internationally, some for the first time. The finalists are given a fun beach challenge followed by a photo shoot with swimwear from Imbe by former Miss South Africa Shudufhadzo Musida. The importance of protecting the oceans from climate change is showcased and the finalists meet Miss Universe Mauritius. Guest judge is Miss South Africa 2001 Vanessa Carreira Coutroulis.

Crown Chasers viewers and Miss South Africa fans are encouraged to vote for their favourite Crown Chaser via the official Miss South Africa App which can also be downloaded for free from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Voting is open from now until August 7 at 10h00.

Miss South Africa 2023 will be crowned at the SunBet Arena at Time Square in Pretoria on Sunday, August 13.

Miss South Africa is presented by Weil Entertainment in association with Sun International. SABC3 is the official broadcast partner.

Go to:

For more information and interview opportunities contact the S3 Publicity office.

Don’t miss Crown Chasers on Sundays (16:00) and the repeat (22:00). The live broadcast of Miss South Africa 2023 is Sunday, 13th of August (19:00), kicking off with the Red Carpet at (18:30) and will be repeated on the 28th of August (21:30) on S3 and SABC Plus. SABC+ is available for download from Apple and Android App Stores.

For media enquiries

Caroline Phalakatshela

Publicity Specialist – Video Entertainment

072 382 2032/ phalakatshelamc@sabc.co.za

Mmusi Maimane is the brave and bold Warrior on The Masked Singer South Africa

The entertainment rumour mill has been buzzing for a while that one or more high-profile politicians would be among the household names hidden in the outrageous costumes of The Masked Singer South Africa.  But which political figure would be bold enough to serenade the country in the local version of the craziest show on television?

When the identity of The Masked Singer South Africa’s formidable Warrior was revealed on Saturday 8 July 2023, the man behind the mask turned out to be the one and only Mmusi Maimane.

The Build One South Africa leader was the sixth famous South African ousted from the fun-filled mystery singing contest.  Previously, the audience parted with culinary queen The Lazy Makoti (Zebra), Springbok rugby player Victor Matfield (Rooster), soccer legend Doctor Khumalo (Soccerman), investigative journalist Bongani Bingwa (Banana) and comedy veteran David Kau (Hippo).

After surviving the fierce first round of the competition, Doughnut, Warrior, Lion, Robot, Fox, and Lollipop returned this week to wow the panel of celebrity detectives with their performances and confuse them with obscure clues about their identities.

In the hopes of nailing the mystery of who is behind the mask, media mogul Tbo Touch also joined sleuths J’Something, Somizi, Sithelo Shozi and Skhumba

The regular detectives on duty were entirely baffled by Warrior and his spectacular mask during the previous round.  How could this fighter, who claimed to be making his stage debut, deliver such an electrifying performance? 

From Warrior’s clandestine clues, Sithelo gauged that this hardworking, book-smart person belonged in the corporate world and then correctly guessed that he might be a politician.  So, the name she provided was Fikile Mabula.  However, Warrior’s dancing moves made J’Something believe it was the hip hop star Big Zulu, while Skhumba locked in Papa Penny.  Hearing that Warrior shared a nickname, Somizi’s guess was Brian Baloyi, the soccer star who braved the corporate space.

This week, Warrior’s stunning performance of “Easy” by The Commodores once again didn’t match the tone of his tips.  He let slip that his name, the first thing he owned, must be valued, that he’s married to the fairest lady in the land and takes religion seriously.

Latching onto a significant date in Warrior’s life – 11 February 1990 – helped J’Something crack the code.  Yet, the panel burst out laughing when J’Something suggested Mmusi Maimane.

Tbo Touch was convinced it was a soccer player, but then again, Warrior’s dancing signalled that he was a white boy.  Somizi agreed and settled on Mark Williams.

Sithelo stuck to Fikile Mabula, and after Warrior confessed the hardest battle to fight was the battle for hearts, Skhumba was dead sure it was businessman Romeo Khumalo.

Unfortunately, dazzling star Fox sent Warrior to unfamiliar territory – the danger zone.  Finally, he lost the battle of votes against the long-legged Robot and king of the jungle, Lion.

With their final guesses, Somizi and Tbo Touch changed their mind to former rugby captain Francois Pienaar.

Everyone’s jaws dropped when Mmusi appeared from behind the Warrior mask.  Only J’Something was spot on.

Mmusi, loving the experience, told the audience he decided to be on the show because his children love the international version: “Kgosi, Kgalaletso and Kutlwano will think I’m a cool guy.”

The Masked Singer South Africa is screened on S3 on Saturdays at 18:30 and SABC1 on the same night at 20:00.  

For media enquiries

Caroline Phalakatshela

Publicity Specialist – Video Entertainment

072 382 2032/ phalakatshelamc@sabc.co.za

The Masked Singer SA Competition

S3 The Masked Singer South Africa viewer competition rules

The Masked Singer South Africa is a Music-based Gameshow show on S3, broadcast every Saturday at 18h30. The show is based on a Panel of 4 Detectives doing their best to guess which South African Celebrity is hiding behind the Mask while the Celebrity performs a popular song. Clues are given throughout the show as to who is behind The Mask. The least favourite performance ( as determined by both the audience and the Detectives is voted off the show and their Identities revealed

S3 is hosting a viewer competition for viewers to stand a chance to win tickets to a Private Screening on The Masked Singer taking place at NuMetro Hyde Park

  • Competition entry dates:
  •  Competition open Thursday 01 June 2023 and close Friday 02 June 2023 at 12pm.
  • The competition is open to all South African citizens except directors, members, partners, employees, agents, service providers and consultants of the SABC, as well as any SABC employee including agencies, or their spouses, life partners, parents, children, brothers, sisters, business partners or associates.
  • Entrants are required to comment as to which South African Celebrity they think is part of the Debut Season of The Masked Singer South Africa using the hashtag “ #TheMaskedSingerSA “ . The Social Media team will select 3 winners who will each win double tickets to the Private Screening of The Masked Singer South Africa.
  • The Call-To-Entry will be placed on S3’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter Pages. With 1 Winner Chosen per platform.
  • Winners will have to be able to travel to and from the screening at their own cost. S3 will not incur any travel , accommodation and per diem costs that Winners will incur due to their attendance at the Screening.
  • Winners will be announced on S3’s participating Social Media Platforms
  • 02 June 2023 at 2pm
  • Correct entries received by the advertised deadlines will be considered for the draw. Any late entries received after at 12pm on the 02nd of June 2023 will be considered as late entries will not be taken into consideration.
  • There is no restriction on the number of entries. The entrant may enter multiple times. Winners are chosen at random and number of entries made will not be a determining factor in choosing winners.
  • The SABC and its agents accept no responsibility for any problems or technical malfunction of any communication network or any late, lost, incomplete, misdirected, incorrectly submitted, delayed, illegible or corrupted entries. The SABC and its agents are not liable for any costs incurred, responses received or any other consequences of user error.
  • The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The SABC or its agents will not be held responsible for any disputes arising from the competition.
  • Entrants will be deemed to have accepted these rules and agree to be bound by them when entering.
  • Prizes are not transferable, and cannot be deferred or exchanged.
  • The SABC and its agents reserve the right to cancel, modify or amend the competition at any time, if deemed necessary in its opinion, and if circumstances arise outside of their control.
  • Entrants that enter need to be within the ages of 18 and older. Below the designated age will not be considered.  
  • If an entrant cannot make the date we will have to find a new winner who can attend on the date mentioned.
  • By virtue of entry winners give consent for name to be mentioned/ flighted on the S3 platform and to being filmed the channel behind the scenes footage which will be flighted on television and on the social media accounts.
  • Winner needs to have a valid Facebook, Instagram or Twitter an account in order to take part.